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Music A-Level at Coppice Performing Arts School

Course description

This course is suitable for anyone who has a strong interest in all aspects of music – performance, composition and analysis. The course offers students a number of performance opportunities, both as a soloist and as a member of an ensemble so it is vital
for any student planning on taking the course to perform an instrument or sing to a good standard. The course also gives students the opportunity to develop their compositional skills through the study of compositional techniques.

The A Level also builds on the theoretical concepts learnt at GCSE and listening skills will be examined at the end of each year. Students will listen to and analyse the structure, tonality, instrumentation and melody of set works and set periods of music
in history. The course should increase the understanding and appreciation of a whole range of musical styles.

Course details & assessment:

Year 1

Unit 1: Influences On Music (15% of A2) A written paper of 1 hour 45 minutes which contains listening questions and two essay questions; one on a set work and the other on Music Theatre from 1940-1980.

Unit 2: Composing (15% of A2) Candidates either create a free composition or complete 2 tasks set by the board relating to composing techniques.

Unit 3: Performing (20% of A2) Candidates perform as both a soloist and as a member of an ensemble.

Year 2

Unit 4: Influences On Music (15% of A2) A written paper of 2 hours 15 minutes which contains listening questions and two essay questions; one on a set work and the other on Jazz Music from 1910-1950.

Unit 5: Composing (15% of A2) Candidates either create a free composition or complete 2 tasks set by the board relating to composing techniques.

Entry requirements

The minimum entry requirement for Level 3 study is 5 GCSEs A*-C including English and Mathematics; these should be in at least 4 different subjects. You will receive guidance about which pathway will be most suited to your needs which will be based on your
anticipated GCSE Point Score. If you have a higher Point Score you will be encouraged to take a more academic route and if your Point Score is lower you may wish to choose a more vocational pathway. However, these options will be discussed in your admission
interview.

Specific entry requirements:

Grade B or above at music GCSE

Grade 4 standard or above on instrument or voice

Ability to read staff notation (treble clef)

Applicants may be asked to audition particularly where music has not been previously studied or has been studied externally

How to apply

If you want to apply for this course, you will need to contact Coppice Performing Arts School directly.

I am delighted that you are interested in Sixth Form study here at Coppice Performing Arts School. We are rightfully proud of our Sixth Form students who are a credit to the high standards and expectations that we have throughout our school. We pride ourselves on the quality of our teaching and the excellent course provision we offer. We are able to offer a wide range of extra- curricular activities and Sixth Form students contribute widely to the life of our school including music, sport, dance, drama, performances, shows, community and charity events.

Academic progress and attendance is regularly monitored and personalised support is negotiated to ensure that every student fulfils their potential. A high level of guidance and support is offered in order to prepare students for university and employment. Our excellent Progression Guidance, together with personalised programmes of support, resulted in all students in 2015 gaining their first choice university place. For 3 consecutive years our students have achieved exceptionally well, with pass rates above National Average.

Our Sixth Form students are seen as role models for younger members of the school and, as such, are full participants in the life of the school and support our vertical tutoring house system. A Head Boy and Head Girl are selected to play a lead part in supporting staff, students and the school as a whole.

At Coppice we are able to offer the best of all worlds: knowledgeable, experienced subject teachers; commitment to supporting students to succeed academically; the development of the whole student through growing responsibilities; the care, support and guidance to cater for every individuals needs and a vibrant, exciting environment where students can flourish.

All this has been enhanced by the completion of our Building Schools for the Future programme, providing Sixth Form students with the opportunity to learn in a fantastic environment.